PM Modi and French President Macron to Meet in Jaipur: strengthening Defense Cooperation
In a significant development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron are set to meet in Jaipur, accompanied by key aides, to discuss and dine at the iconic Rambagh Palace. Macron’s visit holds special significance as he is the Chief Guest at India’s 75th Republic Day celebrations.
Key Highlights of the Visit:
- Macron, along with a 44-member delegation including high-ranking ministers, will land in Jaipur this afternoon.
- The visit will witness discussions on Defence Industrial Roadmap and Defence Space Cooperation, signifying a deepening of ties in defence collaboration.
- The leaders will engage in talks on various regional and global issues, including security environment, religious radicalization, and the evolving Indo-Pacific dynamics.
- France has decided to align its Indo-Pacific policies with India, recognizing it as a key reference point in the region.
- Both countries are expected to announce a defence industrial roadmap, focusing on joint design, manufacture, and certification of defence platforms in India, under PM Modi’s “Atmannirbhar Bharat” initiative.
- The visit also entails signing a letter of intent on Defence Space Cooperation to address challenges in space from rising powers in Asia.
Strengthening Defence Ties:
- India and France have a longstanding history of defence cooperation, with ongoing projects such as the procurement of Rafale-Maritime multi-role fighters and advanced submarines.
- Discussions will include future collaborations on nuclear attack submarines, naval surface combatants, and engine production for multi-role helicopters.
- The collaboration aims not only at enhancing defence capabilities but also at creating job opportunities for Indian youth.
Looking Ahead:
- Despite frequent meetings between Modi and Macron, the visit underscores the vast potential for further strengthening defence ties between India and France.
- The joint efforts reflect a shared commitment to bolstering security and strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific region.
As the leaders converge in Jaipur, the visit heralds a new chapter in the defence partnership between India and France, paving the way for enhanced collaboration and mutual prosperity.
